Pubdate: Sun, 12 Jan 2003
Source: Savannah Morning News (GA)
Copyright: 2003 Savannah Morning News
Contact:  http://www.savannahnow.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/401
Author: Drew Amendola

POLICE WASTING MONEY, TIME WITH ROADBLOCKS

Recent police roadblocks are supposedly an answer to the rising violent 
crime increase in Savannah.

However, they accomplish nothing of the sort.

In fact, those roadblocks are a desperate effort by the police to give the 
impression that they are doing something to cover their incompetence. The 
only success that will happen here is that our freedom from arbitrary 
searches will be gone.

Studies have shown that police manpower is wasted on roadblocks. Every cop 
busting people for such dangerous crimes as seat belt laws, tinted windows 
and open container violations is not investigating a homicide, burglary or 
mugging.

Rather than solving car thefts, money is being made by issuing motorists 
tickets for seat belt fines. Cops also know that roadblocks are highly 
visible and good public relations.

People should not have to surrender their rights to a publicity stunt. 
Having my car randomly stopped is insulting. Having drug dogs sniff cars 
without a reason is inexcusable. It is also a waste of taxpayer dollars.

If other people want those things done to them, then let them volunteer, 
but leave those of us who object alone. The police are supposed to protect 
us from the criminals, but who protects us from the police?

DREW AMENDOLA

Savannah
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens